Richie Shaffer

Shaffer, Tampa Bay’s first-round pick in 2012, has slowly climbed his way up the organizational ladder. Statistically, he has backslid at each level, as the bat that he showed at Clemson University ha...

With Miguel Sano and Byron Buxton ascending in their system, the Twins may have the best collection of minor league talent in baseball. Nick Shlain takes a look around the American League and shares his top-10 from each organization.

Shaffer continued to plug along in 2013, spending the season with High-A Charlotte. He hit .254/.308/.399 with 11 home runs and 73 RBI in 122 games, mostly playing at third base. He showed again that he has promising power and can put the ball out of the park to all fields. Despite being a college draft selection, he may not rise as quickly as expected with Evan Longoria blocking his path to the majors. He did have a bit of a problem with strikeouts, totaling 106 in 469 at-bats. He could eventually see a position switch to first base or a corner outfield spot if he continues to hit with power and the Rays decide to make room for him somewhere. He will likely move up to Double-A Montgomery in 2014 and keep working on his swing.

2013

Shaffer, the Rays' 2012 first-round pick at No. 25 overall, started strong in his professional debut at Low-A Hudson Valley. In 33 games, he hit .308 with an .893 OPS, and slugged four home runs with 26 RBI. He was known for his power and strong arm in college and projects to move through the system as quickly as his bat carries him. He can play both corner infield spots and may eventually shift to first base. He will likely begin the season at High-A Port Charlotte after being a participant in the Arizona Fall League in the offseason. He still is a ways from being in the major leagues but very well could eventually find himself in the middle of the order in the future.